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Credit: Nancy Lane

WAITING GAME: The Patriots have a big decision to make regarding free agent receiver Julian Edelman.

Despite the Patriots' efforts to lock up Julian Edelman before 4 p.m., the wide receiver is heading to free agency.

Edelman doesn't plan to sign the Pats' latest offer and will become a free agent this afternoon.

Edelman’s 105 receptions, 1,056 yards and six touchdowns in 2013 exceeded his total production from his first four seasons, and he played 16 games for the first time in his career. The 2009 seventh-round pick has only earned about $3 million in his five-year career, and he is expected to garner more than that with his signing bonus on the upcoming deal, whether it’s with the Pats or another team.

After allowing Edelman to dangle in free agency for about a month last year, the Patriots have clearly displayed more angst to strike a quicker deal this time around. That time is quickly evaporating before free agency begins, and Edelman has received enough interest elsewhere to find a new home if the Patriots don't close the deal soon.

The two sides have shared mutual interest throughout the offseason. Now, the league's other 31 teams have the opportunity to offer Edelman an official contract.